The world-wide economic slump has left many of us wondering what to do with our vacations. A big hotel bill can be tough to swallow, but don't abandon that dream trip to Italy or Japan just yet.We don't travel to visit hotels do we? No, we travel to visit the country, to revel in the culture, to eat the food! Alternative accommodation options like budget hotels and hostels are great for saving money.
Our Bangkok hotels start as low as $13USD/night! With so many frugal options available, hostel travel is an excellent way to save money and still have that vacation of a lifetime. Choose a cheaper choice instead of the usual fancy schmancy hotel and there will be enough money left-over to splurge on other things. Just know what to expect...
Here are some tips to get you familiarized with budget hotels and hostels:
1. Privacy: Expect a lack of privacy. The majority of hostel rooms are meant to be shared with other guests to cut costs and encourage socializing. Check-in with an open mind and use the opportunity to make new friends. Make sure to find out in advance whether the property is co-ed or male/female quarters, to avoid misunderstandings.
Additional Tip: Bring earplugs and a sleep mask.
2. Sharing: You get some of the best travel tips and insider advice staying at budget hotels and hostels. These affordable alternatives are extremely popular with many seasoned travelers who prefer staying in hostels and budget accommodations over regular hotels. Comparing notes and sharing travel experiences with others opens up new opportunities and new adventures.
Additional Tip: Due to the increasing demand of budget rooms, always be flexible and have a backup plan in case of rejections at the first, second, or even third hostel of your choice.
3. Cleanliness: Chances of getting a spotless room can be slim. Most of the time, guestrooms will be very basic with a minimum of facilities. Guests occasionally are expected to provide their own toiletries and share bathrooms and toilets with other guests. Also note that hot water supply may be at a premium so calculate your shower time wisely.
Additional Tip: Bring shower shoes/flip-flops.
4. Safety: You will find different properties have very different standards and guidelines. Commonly, guests are left to tend to their own safety and personal belongings. In that regard, bring your own padlocks for lockers and bring coins for locker rental. On the flip-side, many hostels adopt very strict rules for safety. Shutting down at a specific time is common, and guests may be locked out if not back before then.
Additional Tip: Some hostels have age limit, make sure you check before booking.
5. Checking In/Out: It is important to be punctual. You can lose your booked room to other travelers if you're late checking-in. In some cases, guests may be asked to pay at check-in or required to make a deposit of some sort whether it be money, passport, etc. Early check-out is almost always mandatory so be prepared.
Additional Tip: Bring both cash and a credit card since different accommodations accept varying methods of payment.
6. Common Areas: Common areas like TV-rooms and cafeterias tend to be noisy and crowded. Any prospective guests with a low tolerance for noise should check with the hotel whether they enforce quiet hours. It's a good idea to be punctual for meals (if not early) as they're usually served as a buffet and being late could mean going hungry, if the food runs out. It is also wise to bring your own utensils to avoid fighting it out with other hungry guests and it also tends to be more hygienic.
Additional Tip: Bring anti-bacterial wipes/spray/gel.
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